The Effects of Poverty on Whole Communities

An individual or family living in poverty faces daily struggles that can leave them vulnerable for their entire lives. But the effects of poverty go far beyond the individual to impact the entire community in a myriad of ways:

“The vicious cycle of poverty means that lifelong barriers and troubles are passed on from one generation to the next,” reports the Borgen Project. “Unemployment and low incomes create an environment where children are unable to attend school. Children must often work to provide an income for their family. As for children who are able to go to school, many fail to see how hard work can improve their lives as they see their parents struggle at every day tasks.”[1]

In a community with multiple people at risk, violence is always a possible issue as well. Prison Legal News reports, “The Brookings Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based research group, has published a study that demonstrates, through empirical data, what many have long suspected: That extreme poverty leads to increased crime rates.”[2]

Unemployment plagues communities gripped by poverty. According to the United Nations, “Unemployment and underemployment lies at the core of poverty. For the poor, labour is often the only asset they can use to improve their well-being. Hence the creation of productive employment opportunities is essential for achieving poverty reduction and sustainable economic and social development. It is crucial to provide decent jobs that both secure income and empowerment for the poor, especially women and younger people.”[3]

Imagine multiple families struggling with unemployment, possible violence, children out of school and the desperation engulfing an entire community. No one person is affected. The entire community suffers, and the cycle of poverty continues with each successive generation. The effects of poverty are not reserved for individuals or single families but radiate through whole communities.

How does poverty affect the community? In generations of poverty-bound people.

How does poverty and unemployment affect the community? By trapping individuals in unskilled labor.

How does poverty affect the health of the community? Reduces healthcare access and exacerbates diseases.


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